For those who enter the serious fashion limbo between spring/summer and fall/winter, pre-fall collections have finally arrived to satisfy our needs. Here is a quick report on the five most notable trends across designers and how to introduce them to your own wardrobe.
Combinations of long-over-long-layers have been a huge trend for this upcoming pre-fall season. Lanvin pairs a patterned knee-grazing jacket with matching trousers, while Rag & Bone styled their long sweaters and vests together. According to Women’s Wear Daily, Peter Dundas even said that he focused on extreme lengths for his Emilio Pucci pre-fall collection this year. To replicate this trend without looking too bulky, try pairing similar colors and prints such as a slate gray knit sweater dress with black bottoms. Using a belt around the waist will also help to elongate the body, as long layers tend to make people seem shorter.
Large, bold prints continue to remain a strong trend this year. Marco de Vincenzo’s first pre-fall collection featured his signature colorful optical effects contrasting with clean and structured silhouettes. Marni also featured graphic patterns and prints in an elongated vest, as well as their cocoon coat. Besides graphic prints, Prabal Gurung presented abstract floral patterns on a sateen skirt. While you may be accustomed to wearing statement printed pieces paired with basics, this pre-fall is all about bold prints being the main focus of the outfit.
Shearling pieces were a designer favorite for this in-between season. Altuzarra, Burberry Prorsum, Lanvin, Chloe and Gucci are just some of the collections that featured this shaggy texture. If you are trying to pull off this trend yourself, try one statement shearling coat or a simple scarf to make any outfit more luxurious.
Say goodbye to color blocking, as monochromatic color palettes takes the spotlight. Rag & Bone features a brilliant cobalt blue ensemble including a matching jacket and skirt set. Tibi also styles two distinctly monochromatic ensembles, one navy blue sweater and leather skirt pairing and the other a pastel pink jacket with matching ankle-grazing skirt. To break up a monotone outfit, use different textures and fabrics to add interest to your outfit. While bright colors are always fun, layering neutrals creates an instantly timeless classic look.
Babydoll dresses are having their moment as well. Both Valentino and J.W. Anderson styled this sweet silhouette with floral patterns, while Francisco Costa and Calvin Klein stuck to solid colors. To try out the trend without investing much in it, use a thin belt with any swing dress and cinch it around your waist.